Multi-objective optimization research on the achievement path of dual carbon goals in mining enterprises

Under the requirement of dual carbon targets, achieving carbon neutrality in mining enterprises has become a key task for sustainable development. This study is remarkably innovative in that it is the first time to deeply analyze a copper mining enterprise in western China and construct an exclusive enterprise-level carbon-neutral multi-objective optimization model and apply it to the enterprise. The results show that through rational planning, the target enterprises are expected to achieve carbon peaking around 2030, with peak emissions in the range of 176,000–202,000 tons, and reach the carbon neutrality target in 2040 at the earliest. Among the many emission reduction measures, energy restructuring is the most effective in reducing emissions. Moreover, the mine can achieve carbon neutrality without having to build its own wind or photovoltaic power generation. The target enterprises can choose to buy about 7000t of carbon sinks each year or alfalfa and ice grass should be adopted in large quantities in the ecological restoration of mining areas. Finally, technology T7 should be prioritized in technological transformation. This study not only fills the gap of quantitative research on the realization path of dual-carbon goals for mining enterprises, but also provides scientific quantitative implementation paths for enterprises and practical policy recommendations, which will help mining enterprises move forward steadily in the dual-carbon journey.